“Anglers or snowmobilers might be safe in one spot one day, but might fall through in the same place the very next day," says Kara Owens, DNR boat and water safety specialist.

So far this winter, there have been no ice-related deaths in Minnesota. Last winter, four people died after falling through the ice.

“We want people to get out and enjoy our weather, but remember ice is never 100 percent safe,” she said. “Don’t put yourself or someone else in danger by going out on thin ice. No fish is worth your life.”

Owens added when the temperature rises above freezing for six hours during a 24 hour period, people should double the recommended minimum thicknesses. If temperatures rise above freezing for 24 hours or more, they should stay off the ice.

Owens recommends anyone heading out on the ice should wear a life jacket, carry a set of ice picks, check with a local bait shop or resort— ask about ice conditions— and measure the ice.